I’m Very Sensitive to Products with Alcohol, Like Rogaine Foam

Dr Rassman, is it possible for a person who is very sensitive to products containing alcohol even have problems with the Rogaine Foam. I stopped the foam because it was drying out my hair alot and I noticed my hair thinning more and falling out more. Even if I go a few days without using it my hair looks better. I never had itching or redness from it but my hair texture changed to a more haylike feeling. I used good conditioners too but my hair still was still too dry and the hair diameter was thinner. I have my hair professionally colored and it even strips the color of my hair near the roots. So basically is it possible for someone to have a negative result due to even a small amount of alcohol in the product. I also notice my face retains more fluid and my skin gets more acne when I use the foam or any type of minoxidil. Would that also be considered a negative reaction to minoxidil?

Rogaine Foam has alcohol in it, so if you do have a sensitivity it could be an issue. While the 2% minoxidil is alcohol based, the 5% minoxidil liquid is propylene glycol based (though check the ingredients on the packaging since it may still have some alchohol). You may consider trying the 5% as an alternative to the Foam. Alcohol does dry the hair out. If you’re retaining fluid in your face, that is a known negative side effect. I’d meet with a dermatologist about the acne.